I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect when I found out that I had been selected to go to the Spring 2019 Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA) Conference. All I knew was that I was going with a team of stellar students and that I was sure to learn a lot. I had heard of OUSA before from other students’ social media, but I never really had a clear understanding of what it is or why it exists. Under the mentorship of experienced OUSA delegates, I was given a crash course how the system works and how I would add value.
The OUSA conference fully immerses you into the world of student advocacy on a greater playing field. It also appears to be the epitome of the value that an extra-curricular activity can give to an undergraduate student. We debated and collaborated with some of Ontario’s best and brightest regarding many student issues, namely how to better serve marginalized communities. Though delegates disagreed on how and by what means, all students appeared to agree on the underlying notion that marginalized communities need more support, and it is in part the responsibility of students’ unions to do so. I am so proud to have been part of that power-house group of students all fighting for a safer and more inclusive student experience.
A few days since the conference, it’s clear that OUSA gave me a truly unique learning experience that I am so grateful to have had. Not only do we work tirelessly to improve the lives of students, but we also benefit from all of these experiences. You are given a project or task, which you lead and take ownership of. It’s a real-world experience and application of your skills. It’s safe to say that these organizations have played a central role in my personal and professional development. I can’t express how important they are for students to use as a training-grounds where they can accelerate their career.
— Christianne Morrison, Incoming Huron President, HBA/Psychology Dual Student
Click here for the full OUSA General Assembly recap.Â